Disabled Yoga Accessible Worcester is an activity that has been available in Worcester, UK since June 2017. Yoga 7, the organisation behind this initiative, provides yoga classes specifically tailored to people with disabilities in Worcestershire and beyond, ensuring that yoga is accessible to everyone. All venues where classes are held are wheelchair-friendly and offer free parking or parking nearby.
In addition to group classes, Yoga 7 also offers personal tuition to individuals with disabilities or specific needs such as injury, chronic illness, age, or those who are bedridden. Participating in these classes can provide numerous benefits. If you are recovering from an injury, the class will be adapted to suit your needs. It is crucial to inform the instructor about any injuries or ailments you have.
Yoga 7 is committed to making yoga accessible to all and has taught yoga to various special populations. They have provided yoga classes to Para Olympic Athletes, individuals receiving palliative care, young people with psychosis, and those recovering from chemotherapy and breast cancer treatment in collaboration with the University of Worcester. They have also worked with Whizz Kidz summer camp, teaching yoga to young adults with severe restricted movement and wheelchair users. Additionally, Yoga 7 has experience teaching yoga to individuals with sight and hearing impairments, neurological disorders, Hemihypertrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Regardless of your disability, Yoga 7 ensures that it does not inhibit your yoga practice or prevent you from experiencing its amazing health benefits.
Most of us have weaker or stronger areas in our bodies regardless of our fitness level or flexibility. Yoga 7 believes that everyone should have the opportunity to practice yoga, regardless of any ailments, injuries, or disabilities they may have. With accessible yoga and disabled yoga, slight or extensive modifications are made to incorporate each individual into the class. Students can practice yoga in a chair or on a bed, depending on their needs. Props such as blocks, chairs, straps, and even a bed are used to support students during their practice. The focus of an accessible yoga class is on what works for each individual, rather than what doesn't. Disabled students are given options to best utilise their bodies at any given time.
Research has shown that long-term sedentary behaviour increases the risk of health conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, with inactivity playing a direct role in the development of insulin resistance. Therefore, it is vital to move and use the body as much as possible for a longer and healthier life. Practising yoga enhances movement, strength, and flexibility while promoting relaxation of the mind and body. After a class, you may experience a sense of lightness in your body and inner peace and calmness. Props are used to assist with postures, and the instructors at Yoga 7 consider the practical application of yoga techniques and the psychological insight necessary for helping disabled yoga students.
If you have a disability and are interested in trying a disabled yoga class but cannot attend any of Yoga 7's classes in Worcester, they offer personal tuition and can come to your home to accommodate your needs. However, all Yoga 7 venues in Worcester are wheelchair accessible and open to all. If you are unsure if yoga is suitable for you, it is recommended to consult with your GP. Once you receive the green light from them, you can get in touch with Yoga 7 to book a class either online or by phone.
